Read Online A Simple Change by Judith Miller - Free Book Online Page B

in the Küche.” He raised his eyebrows. “You understand?”
    With a slight nod, I stepped alongside Madelyn. “Yes, Sister Hanna described her work to me earlier.”
    â€œI would like to hear why you have joined us here in Middle Amana, Sister Jancey.” Brother Werner glanced over his shoulder as he spoke. “I know your parents lived here long ago, but I am sure to come here caused you some worry, ja?”
    â€œYou’re right. Coming here was a big decision for me, but I wanted to be with my parents. They are all the family I have. Brother Herman may have told you my mother’s health is failing.”
    Brother Werner didn’t indicate whether he’d been advised or not, but since I’d told Sister Hanna a bit about my past when we were together earlier, I thought it would be easiest to answer any questions from the rest of the family while she remained at work. It would save repeating the same things over and over.
    â€œIt is gut you want to be with your Mutter during her time of need, and we will do all we can to help you and your parents.” He glanced at Ritt and then Madelyn. “Won’t we?”
    Both of them agreed. I didn’t miss the sympathy in Ritt’s eyes when he looked at me. “You should tell us whatever you need, and we will answer any questions you have. Do not be afraid to ask.” His voice radiated a deep warmth and kindness that made me feel comfortable in his presence.
    â€œThank you, Ritt. I’m sure I’ll have lots of questions until I learn how things are done and where everything is located.”
    He chuckled. “Will not take long to show you where things are. The village isn’t so big, and you speak German, so anyone can help you if you get lost.”
    â€œWhere did you live before you came here? Was it a big city?” Madelyn spread her arms wide.
    â€œMy parents and I had a home in Kansas City, Missouri. I consider it a big city, but it isn’t as large as some of the cities on the East Coast. Still, it is much larger than Middle Amana.”
    Madelyn’s eyes grew wide. “I would be afraid in such a big place.”
    Brother Werner turned toward me as we walked inside the house. “Did your father work in Kansas City, Sister Jancey?”
    I nodded. “He owns Forsythe Construction Company, which is located in Kansas City, but sometimes his contracts would take him to nearby smaller communities. As soon as all of his current construction contracts are complete, the business will be sold.”
    Ritt opened the door to their parlor and waited while we entered. Once inside, we sat down, and Ritt leaned forward. “I am curious about one thing. If your Vater owned the business, why didn’t he name it Rhoder Construction Company?”
    I explained that my father and mother had come to own the business, as well as our house, because of the kindness of Mr. and Mrs. Forsythe. “They were like grandparents to me. Since they had no children, they treated our little family like their own. My father wouldn’t have considered changing the name of the company when he took over. Besides, keeping the name helped remind him of all the good that happened to our family. We were very fortunate to have met Mr. and Mrs. Forsythe.”
    â€œJa, is true, but I think Mr. Forsythe must have known your Vater and Mutter would carry on his business in an honorable way. He was a gut judge of character. I understand the business has done very well.” Brother Werner removed a pipe from his pocket and filled it with tobacco.
    â€œYes, the business has prospered under my father’s direction.” The fact that Brother Werner knew about the success of Forsythe Construction surprised me, since he hadn’t previously indicated he knew anything about our family or my father’s business ventures. Perhaps Brother Herman had provided some details about our family.
    Madelyn inched closer,